The Naval Update Map shows an approximation of the current locations of U.S. Carrier Strike Groups (CSGs) and Amphibious Ready Groups (ARGs), based on available open-source information. No classified or operationally sensitive information is included in this weekly update. CSGs and ARGs are the keys to U.S. dominance of the world’s oceans. A CSG is centered on an aircraft carrier, which projects U.S. naval and air power and supports a carrier air wing (CVW). The CSG includes significant offensive strike capability. An ARG is centered on three amphibious warfare ships, with a Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) embarked. An MEU is built around a heavily reinforced and mobile battalion of Marines.
Carrier Strike Groups
- The USS Abraham Lincoln CSG with CVW 2 embarked is under way in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility (AOR) conducting missions supporting Operation Enduring Freedom, maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts.
- The USS Carl Vinson CSG with CVW 17 embarked is under way in the U.S. 5th Fleet AOR conducting missions supporting Operation Enduring Freedom, maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts.
- The USS John C. Stennis CSG with CVW 9 embarked is under way in the U.S. 7th Fleet AOR returning to its home port of Bremerton, Wash.
- The USS Enterprise is under way in the Atlantic Ocean participating in Bold Alligator 2012, the largest joint and multinational amphibious assault exercise in the past ten years.
- The USS George H. W. Bush is under way in the Atlantic Ocean conducting Carrier Qualifications for Naval Air Training Command (TRACOM).
Amphibious Ready Groups/Marine Expeditionary Units
- The USS Makin Island ARG with the 11th MEU embarked is under way in the U.S. 5th Fleet AOR supporting maritime security operations and conducting theater security cooperation efforts.
- The USS Wasp is under way in the Atlantic Ocean participating in Bold Alligator 2012.
- The USS Kearsarge is under way in the Atlantic Ocean participating in Bold Alligator 2012.
- The USS Iwo Jima is under way in the Atlantic Ocean participating in Bold Alligator 2012.
- The USS Peleliu is under way in the Pacific Ocean conducting flight deck certifications.
